A NORTH-EAST man has made it through to the finals of a competition to find Britain's hunkiest husbands.

Tony Balmer, 40, a bus driver from Darlington, was nominated for inclusion in the competition by his wife, Julie.

The father-of-one is among 24 finalists selected from hundreds of entrants nominated by their partners in Best magazine's hunt for 12 pin-ups for its Hunky Husbands and Beautiful Boyfriends calendar 2002.

Tony, who works for Durham County Council social services, said he initially had no idea his wife had nominated him.

"She only told me be about it three or four days after she'd sent my picture off," he said. "It's a big ego boost though, especially when you're 40."

The public must now choose the 12 men to feature in the magazine over the next year.

Not only will the winner get the chance to appear as a calendar star in the magazine, but there is also a prize for their partner.

Each winning couple will receive a luxury break in London staying at a top hotel, attend an awards dinner with Best editor Louise Court, and see a top West End show, as well as having dinner at a London restaurant.

To vote for Tony ring 0901 270 0777, lines close at midnight, on Monday.

One lucky caller will win £500 with another five receiving £100 each.